Shela Chan joins us to discuss her journey to faith and the research that now shapes her work at the intersection of queer theology, ethics, and social science. Drawing on her own story and doctoral research, Sheila examines how theology and empirical insights can inform Christian understandings of human flourishing, belonging, and trauma while challenging the ways churches can unintentionally marginalize LGBTQ people.

Note: This episode uses the terms “Side A” and “Side B” as shorthand quite a bit. If you’re new to the conversation, you might find it helpful to check out episode #3, where we talk through the four “sides”: ⁠#3 - A-B-Y-X | 4 Sides on SSA/Gay Sexuality⁠

★ About Our Guest:

Shela Chan is a Ph.D. student of Theological and Social Ethics at Fordham University in New York. Her background includes mission work in Afro-Eurasia, and she holds a Master of Divinity degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Her academic research focuses on holistic human development and flourishing at the intersection of sexuality and attachment theory. You can find her on Instagram @shechannnnn.

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★ Timestamps

(00:00) #85 - Shela Chan: Reflections on Social Science and Christian Ethics

(02:17) Shela’s story: From queer liberation to finding yourself in Jesus

(18:18) Post-conversion: Queer experience, spiritual growth

(41:57) How we interpret the Bible determines where we end up

(47:00) Can Adam and Eve be archetypes for us today?

(58:15) The archetype of the eunuch and the “ideal male”

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★ Links and References

* The Romance of Innocent Sexuality, Geoffrey Rees (2011)

* About Tim Keller’s gay brother: https://ap.org.au/2024/10/01/timothy-kellers-brother/

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★ Send us feedback, questions, comments, and support!

Email: communionandshalom@gmail.com | Instagram: @newkinship | Substack: @newkinship | Patreon: @newkinship

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★ Credits

Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza, Tyler Parker | Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson, carlswensonmusic.com | Producer: Elena F. ★